Ronaldo, Bale, Griezmann For UEFA MVP Award; Messi Misses Out

Union of European Football Association (UEFA) have shortlisted Real Madrid's duo of Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale, and Atletico Madrid's Antoine Griezman as the three final nominees for the 2015/16 UEFA Best Player in Europe Award.

The final shortlist was made known on Friday by Europe's football governing body.

Ronaldo, who won the award in 2014, finished as UEFA Champions League top scorer for the fourth season running and the fifth time overall with 16 goals as Real Madrid picked up the European Cup for an 11th time.

The former Manchester United forward rounded off a great season by leading Portugal to the Euro 2016 title for the first time.

Ronaldo's team-mate at Real Madrid, Bale, helped his side win a second UEFA Champions League crown in three years.

He also had a memorable outing at the Euros where his three goals were a key factor in Wales's remarkable run to the semi-finals.

And despite suffering heartaches with Atletico Madrid and France, Griezman distinguished himself with breathtaking displays.

His seven Champions League goals propelled Atletico to their second finals in two seasons.

He scored six goals at the Euros and emerged Player of the Tournament.

Meanwhile, the winner of this year's award will be decided by a jury who will cast their votes during the 2016/17 UEFA Champions League group stage draw in Monaco on Thursday, 25 August.

Barcelona and Argentina forward, Lionel Messi, is the current holder of the award after winning it in 2015. He misses out this time as Barcelona crashed out in the Champions League quarter-finals.